ONE wonders what will be left for John Deere to reveal at its major product launch next month in Indianappolis, US.
It already has taken the covers off new gear including 8R Series tractors, new combine harvesters, a self-propelled sprayer and a new GreenStar3 controller.
And this week it released news of its latest 7R Series tractors.
The focus is on increased power and technology providing the market with row-crop tractor models with many of the performance features found in the larger 8R Series.
The five model line-up starts with the 147kW (200hp) 7200R and ranges through to the 7280R, whjch boasts a power rating of 206kW (280hp).
The 7R Series tractors come with new IVT and Command Quad transmissions, options for larger tyres, compact chassis and greater engine kilowatt rating.
These features give the 7R models the versatility to handle the tillage, seeding, hay-making, loader work, spray, spreading and chaser work.
According to John Deere division marketing manager Jarrod McGinnis, these new tractors are completely new from the ground up.
"They are designed for the producer who needs a more versatile tractor that has more kilowatt power, more fuel capacity and greater hitch-lift capacity," he said.
"We've also integrated a new Interim Tier 4 EGR PowerTech engine, a fully automatic Infinitely Variable Transmission and other technologies to deliver improved fuel efficiency."
According to Deere, the 7R Tractors have 30 per cent more fuel capacity and 23pc greater hitch-lift capacity compared to their large-frame 7030 series predecessors.
In addition, this new series has an optional integrated front hitch and PTO so producers can easily operate front-driven equipment such as triple-mounted mower-conditioners and a wide range of other attachments.
For rear-driven equipment, a new three-speed economy PTO with power-assist PTO shifting is an available fuel-saving option.
Inside the cab, John Deere has made major changes to enhance the operating experience.
Along with a roomier CommandView II Cab that gives the operator improved visibility to the drawbar, the 7R Series tractors have an optional touch-screen, video-capable CommandCenter display.
The 7R models also can be equipped with ActiveCommand Steering (ACS), which uses breakthroughs in steering technology to deliver precision steering control, especially at transport speeds.
Another option is an adaptive hydraulic cab suspension system that reads multiple tractor inputs to automatically adjust the suspension for an improved ride.
"Along with being a versatile tractor, the 7R is one of the most comfortable and easy-to-handle tractors in its class," Mr McGinnis said. "Fingertip controls and improved steering and suspension features make it easier on the operators to spend longer days in the field, even under rough conditions."
Other new features include the availability of six SCVs for greater hydraulic versatility and the addition of right-hand steps to make it more convenient to access the right side of the tractor.
"One thing customers will not see is an external exhaust treatment filter," Mr McGinnis said.
"We designed the new 7R Tractors with the exhaust treatment filter under the hood and streamlined the overall look of these tractors, beyond just increasing their power and performance.
"Many of these features are what customers have asked for."
The 7R Series tractors will be available in Australia later this year.
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